Prince George, B.C.- The Prince George Cougars Hockey Club has announced three  initiatives that give back to the community.

New this season is the Michael Fogolin Memorial Program which rewards students who are making a positive difference in the community. Michael Fogolin was a member of the Prince George Cougars during the 2003-04 season, and tragically passed away in his sleep at the age of 17. He was known for his passion for hockey, God, family and friends, warm heart, respect for others, and his giving nature. The Fogolin’s wish is for teachers and peers to nominate deserving students for this initiative, and to reward those students with tickets to attend a game. The Prince George Cougars will then provide two additional tickets to allow the selected student to nominate a teacher who has provided strong inspiration and leadership. “We are honored to support the Prince George Cougars in recognizing young people in the community for Outstanding Citizenship. We strongly believe that young people are our future and that they should be recognized for their accomplishments,” said Michael’s parents, Carol and Lee Fogolin.

“One of the primary goals of the New Ice Age and the Prince George Cougars is to give back to our community,” adds Prince George Cougars Vice President – Business, Andy Beesley. “Not only does this initiative reward youth and mentors in our community, but it also helps keep Michael Fogolin’s memory at the forefront of our organization.” The Cougars will promote this program during all home games and via traditional and social media. The  Cougars  encourage anybody to nominate a deserving elementary or secondary school student by writing a letter and submitting it to info@pgcougars.com or by mailing/dropping it off to the Cougars office at the CN Centre.

Another  initiative involves the  University Hospital of Northern B.C.’s Paediatric Ward.

The Prince George Cougars Hockey Operations Staff have all kicked in some money to ensure children and their families will get to enjoy Prince George Cougars hockey games at no expense.   “Community involvement is a huge priority for our organization from top to bottom,” said Prince George Cougars General Manager, Todd Harkins. “I know what it’s like to have a son go in and out of the hospital. It can be very challenging for the whole family, and our goal with this initiative is to provide a way for families to enjoy some quality time together and escape their daily struggles.”   In addition to the Cougars staff, IRL Supplies. has also continued supporting the Paediatrics Ward at UHNBC and the Prince George Cougars.   ‘As a long time corporate member of our community, IRL Supplies is proud to be able to give back by supporting the Pediatrics Ward at UHNBC and the Prince George Cougars,” said IRL Supplies President, Rob Romeyn. “We are pleased to provide the chance for families to have a little reprieve and some enjoyable down time while dealing with the otherwise challenging situations that they are facing.”

The third initiative  comes from  the family of Prince George Cougars forward Jordan Ross.  The Ross family has partnered with the Prince George Cougars and Big Brothers Big Sisters Prince George to ensure children and their Big Brothers and Big Sisters will be able to enjoy Cougars games in 2014-15.   “We’ve taught all of our kids to give back through hockey. Jordan is very lucky to be playing hockey at a high level, and we want to use that privilege and benefit to make a positive impact in the community,” said Jordan Ross’ father Dean. “There are less fortunate people that deserve to have fun, and to enjoy a night out, and through this initiative we can pass out some good fortune to others in the City of Prince George.”   The Prince George Cougars want to thank Jordan Ross, his parents Dean and Tammy, and brothers Riley and Taylor for their generosity.

The spirit of hockey is alive and well in the City of Prince George, and the Prince George Cougars and their  community partners are thrilled to play a role in allowing children and their mentors to enjoy the game that they love.

If you have any further questions about any of these ticket initiatives, or want to nominate somebody to receive tickets to an upcoming game, call the Cougars office at: 250-561-0783 or send an e-mail to info@pgcougars.com.